2.1 Gene Structure and Protein Synthesis Quiz

The structure of DNA consists of alternating phosphate groups and deoxyribose molecules forming the backbone, with nitrogenous bases (adenine, guanine, thymine, and cytosine) attached to the deoxyribose molecules. Adenine always pairs with thymine, and guanine always pairs with cytosine.

The genetic code is a sequence of three consecutive DNA bases called a 'triplet' or 'codon'. Each triplet codes for a specific amino acid, ultimately determining the sequence of amino acids in a protein.

Transcription is the process of copying the genetic code from DNA to messenger RNA (mRNA). This occurs in the nucleus, where DNA stays, and the mRNA diffuses out into the cytoplasm.

Translation is the process of interpreting the mRNA code into a protein. Ribosomes, which are cellular structures found in the cytoplasm, read the mRNA codons and link together amino acids in the correct order.

Ribosomes are essential cellular structures that act as manufacturing plants for protein synthesis. They are located in the cytoplasm and do not exist in the nucleus.

Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic code from DNA to ribosomes, where it directs protein synthesis.

Genes are segments of DNA that carry the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. They control the production of proteins, which in turn determine the characteristics of an individual.

Genetic diseases arise from defects in genes, disrupting normal protein function. These defects can lead to various health issues, depending on the specific gene affected.

The chance of developing cancer is significantly increased, sometimes fivefold, when several specific genes are present simultaneously.

A gene that promotes rapid cell reproduction, combined with a gene that triggers blood vessel formation, can create a higher risk for cancer development.

Although mutations occur naturally, their probability increases significantly in the presence of specific factors, such as exposure to chemicals, radiation, and other agents.

Substances that trigger or promote cancer development, like cigarette smoke, are known as carcinogens.

Hereditary cancer suggests that one or more genes responsible for cancer development are already mutated in the inherited genome, requiring fewer additional mutations to initiate cancer.

Cancer cells often exhibit a reduced ability to adhere to each other, allowing them to break free and spread to other tissues through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Cancer cells stimulate the growth of new blood vessels, providing them with a direct supply of nutrients and oxygen, aiding in their continued growth and spread.

Cancer cells can outcompete normal cells for essential nutrients, eventually depriving vital organs and disrupting their functions, as seen in lung cancer where oxygen absorption is impaired.

The process by which cells control the production of proteins and other substances.

The mechanism by which cells control the expression of genes, turning them on or off.

The regulation of enzyme activity, controlling their ability to catalyze specific reactions.

A type of cellular control where the product of a reaction inhibits the enzyme that catalyzes the reaction, creating a negative feedback loop.

The process by which a cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

The process of duplicating the cell's DNA before cell division.

Errors that occur during DNA replication, leading to changes in the genetic code.

The process by which cells specialize for different functions, resulting in diverse cell types in the body.

The process of programmed cell death, a controlled and orderly process of cell dismantling.

Uncontrolled cell growth and division, often caused by mutations in genes that regulate cell cycle.

A period of time between DNA replication and mitosis during which DNA is proofread and errors are corrected.

A type of cell death caused by injury or damage, resulting in cell swelling and bursting.

The genetic material of a cell, containing instructions for all cellular functions.

The process by which DNA is used as a template to create RNA, a molecular message that carries genetic information.

The synthesis of proteins based on the instructions carried by RNA.